Five iconic musicals that were inspired by the life stories of legendary musical artists
Ben Elton, the writer behind We Will Rock You, is reportedly exploring a new jukebox musical built around Oasis songs after approaching Noel Gallagher about the idea.
From Mamma Mia! to Jersey Boys: The artists who inspired musicals
Ben Elton, the writer behind We Will Rock You, is reportedly exploring a new jukebox musical built around Oasis songs after approaching Noel Gallagher about the idea.
It would add Oasis to a remarkable list of artists whose music has already been transformed for the stage, from ABBA and Queen to Tina Turner and Michael Jackson.
Here are 5 acts whose songs and stories have become successful musicals.
Tina Turner – Tina: The Tina Turner Musical
The life of the late Tina Turner became the subject of Tina, a biographical musical tracing her journey from a girl in Nutbush, Tennessee to international superstar.
The show features some of Turner's best-known songs, including What's Love Got to Do with It, Proud Mary and Private Dancer.
Its original Broadway production received 12 Tony nominations, with Adrienne Warren winning Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Turner.
Michael Jackson – MJ the Musical
Michael Jackson's extraordinary career was brought to Broadway in MJ, which focuses on the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
The production incorporates classic tracks from the late King of Pop while exploring his creative process and the people who helped shape his performances.
It won four Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical for Myles Frost, Best Choreography and awards for lighting and sound.
Frank Sinatra - Sinatra the Musical
The life and music of Frank Sinatra are currently being brought to the West End in Sinatra The Musical, which opened at London's Aldwych Theatre earlier this year.
Set in 1942, the show follows the young Sinatra as his career explodes, while also examining his relationships with wife Nancy and Hollywood star Ava Gardner.
The production features more than 20 classic from Ol' Blue Eyes, including That's Life, The Best Is Yet to Come and I've Got the World on a String.
Queen - We Will Rock You
Queen's legendary back catalogue became the soundtrack for We Will Rock You, written by Ben Elton and built around songs by the British rock band.
The 2002 West End musical created a fictional future in which rock music has been suppressed, following a group of rebels known as the Bohemians.
Songs including We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions and Don't Stop Me Now helped turn it into a huge audience hit.
ABBA - Mamma Mia!
ABBA's irresistible back catalogue became the foundation for Mamma Mia!, the jukebox musical that turned songs including Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia and The Winner Takes It All into a story about love, family and friendship
The show premiered in London's West End in 1999 and has become a global phenomenon, spawning productions around the world as well as two successful movies.